Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical activity habits of people with multiple sclerosis in Spain

Impacto de la pandemia por Covid-19 en los hábitos de actividad física de las personas con EM en España

Background

According to the literature, patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) are less active and show higher levels of sedentary behaviour than the general population of the same age range. This study aims to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on levels of physical activity in these patients.

Methods

An online survey was launched between May and June 2021, aimed at patients with MS in Spain, regarding their physical activity habits (performance, intensity, and activities carried out) prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

A total of 230 patients responded to the survey, of whom 69.6% were women, 52.6% were between 45 and 64 years old, and 41.3% had moderate disability (Patient-Determined Disease Steps score 3–5). A total of 82.2% of the respondents reported being physically active before the pandemic, decreasing to 75.9% during the pandemic [P=.057 (McNemar test)]. Activities at sports centres decreased and exercise at home, as well as walking, increased. A total of 61.7% reported not using any technology during physical activity practise before the pandemic. For 63.9% of respondents, the preferred format after the pandemic was the mixed format combining in-person and remote physical activity.

Conclusions

Physical activity levels decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic among patients with MS. Although SARS-CoV-2 is currently in an endemic phase, this experience should be helpful for the development and implementation of interventions to facilitate physical activity among patients with MS.

Enlazar con artículo